Overnite Transportation Sign, 20th century, V.2022.21, Museum Purchase

Sign Spotting

May 25, 2023 - May 31, 2024

“I saw the sign!” In the words of Ace of Base, whether lit from within, glitzy with gold, or hoisted up high, most Richmond signs have to be seen to be heard. Businesses, governments, and citizens use signs to advertise, direct, and define. Sign Spotting will use the Valentine’s sign collection to explore how some signs contributed to the city’s hospitality, health, transportation, and manufacturing industries. The museum’s collection of signs will be featured, many of which are recent acquisitions, including neon signage, trade signs, public facility signage from the Jim Crow wea, street signs, and local advocacy signs.